With power and innovation, BYD Shark arrives in Brazil to face Ranger and Hilux. Can it conquer the off-road market?
BYD Shark, Known as the most powerful midsize pickup truck in the world, it is about to arrive in Brazil. With its unique combination of hybrid engines and cutting-edge technology, Shark promises to raise standards in the off-road segment and offer a unprecedented experience for Brazilian consumers, according to the Quatro Rodas website. But does it have what it takes to take on established competitors like the Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux?
The arrival of BYD Shark in Brazil
BYD Shark is scheduled to debut in Brazil next year. Initially, the units can be imported from Asia, but BYD has ambitious plans for their local production in the new factory in Camaçari, Bahia. According to Alexandre Baldy, head of BYD in Brazil, the nationalization of the pickup is just a matter of time and final details.
The Shark is equipped with a 1.5 hp 192 turbo gasoline engine and two electric motors – a front one with 228 hp and 31,6 kgfm and a rear one with 201 hp and 34,7 kgfm – totaling iimpressive 480 hp. This configuration makes it the most powerful midsize pickup truck in the world, with torque estimated at around 70 kgfm. All-wheel drive is always available, providing instant torque and excellent maneuverability, characteristics valued in off-road terrain.
- Be careful! Five reasons why you shouldn't change your car NOW!
- It looks like a truck, but it's your dream pickup truck! Ford F-150 arrives in Brazil and surprises everyone with its power, size and competitive price, all in one
- Automaker launches 500 hp electric pickup truck with solar charging to end Tesla and BYD's reign!
- Honda and Yamaha, get ready! Costing less than R$20.000, the new national motorcycle arrives as a new option with affordable prices and advanced technology
Autonomy and efficiency of the new BYD pickup truck
One of the highlights of Shark is its autonomy. Thanks to the innovative battery cell arrangement, the pickup can travel up to 100 km in pure electric mode. In hybrid mode, autonomy reaches 840 km. BYD is also working to adapt its hybrid system to ethanol, which could further increase its attractiveness in the Brazilian market.
Shark offers a number of advanced technological features. The pickup has a digital instrument panel and a multimedia center that add up to about 23 inches. The user interface can be improved, but connectivity with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay is a strong point, with wireless connection and a 50 W induction cell phone charger. NFC technology allows the use of smartphones as virtual keys, offering practicality and additional security.
Bold design and functionality
The Shark's design is inspired by the shark, with an aggressive front that resembles the predator's mouth. The DRLs that surround the full-LED headlights and the tiny front grille are visual highlights. The bucket has a capacity of 1.435 liters and is equipped with three electrical outlets, ideal for powering devices during camping or off-road adventures.
Measuring 5,46 meters long and with a wheelbase of 3,26 meters, the Shark offers generous internal space. The flat floor, without gimbals, provides additional comfort for passengers in the second row. At the front, the center console was inspired by a spaceship, with attractive and easy-to-operate buttons. The flat-bottom, incomplete-spoke steering wheel adds a modern, functional aesthetic to the pickup's interior.
Performance and driving
During the driving test in Mexico City, Shark demonstrated excellent comfort and agility. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5,7 seconds, offering good performance in restarts. The double A suspension, both front and rear, brings the Shark closer to an SUV, ensuring a smooth ride on rough terrain. The selection of terrain modes and 360º cameras make off-road driving easier, providing robustness and reliability.
Perspectives and challenges
The arrival of BYD Shark in Brazil represents a challenge for traditional competitors such as the Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux. With advanced technology, unparalleled power and a focus on innovation, Shark has the potential to capture a significant share of the off-road market. BYD's Vice President of the Americas, Stella Li, emphasizes that company is prepared to offer a high quality service to Brazilians, promising to transform the pickup truck market in the country.
Technical Sheet – BYD Shark
- Engine: Petrol 1.5 turbo (192 hp) + Front electric (228 hp) + Rear electric (201 hp)
- Combined power: 480 hp
- Electric range: 100 km
- Hybrid range: 840 km
- Dimensions: Length 5,46 m, width 1,97 m, height 1,92 m, wheelbase 3,26 m
- Load capacity: 1.435 liters
- Towing capacity: 2.500 kg
BYD Shark is ready to attack the Brazilian market, offering a unique combination of power, technology and innovation. With its imminent launch, it remains to be seen whether it will be able to capture a significant share of the off-road market and go head to head with the sales leaders in the segment.
I can't wait to buy this pickup truck, this plane on wheels.
It will certainly leave many other off-roaders eating dust.
When it arrives I'll buy one, I loved this pickup.
I want to buy 2, I'll give one as a gift, excellent pickup truck